By taking a few steps to arrange your priorities, you can get the best chance of keeping in track and organized during the whole semester, which in turn can help reduce stress levels, something that can be the difference between failure and success at the university.

1. Create an organized schedule

Set up a time only to study or do assignments/homework. You can study non-stop for two hours and then take five minutes to relax by freeing your mind. Shut off your phone and make/respond to calls or texts when your work is completed. If possible, you cannot use or surf the Web (except when you need to for the work you are doing). Assignments and projects should be prioritized and scheduled accordingly based on when they are due as well as the level of importance. Schedule study time in a location that has minimal distractions and interruptions to focus when studying.

2. Make a to-do list everyday

Put the most importance tasks at the top and tackle the first even though the tasks are quite hard. Break your goal down into baby steps. Think as if you wanted to explain to a three-year-old what she/he must do to get to that goal. You need to evaluate how well you are doing each day and set daily goals so you achieve it. Then, before going to bed each night, take a moment to write something simple like "All done" if you have completed all of your tasks for the day. If you didn't, then quickly jot down why you were not able to. This way, you build a system for being mindful of your actions and holding yourself accountable. Try motivating yourself with a reward like shopping for new clothes if you get everything done on your list.

3. Get a good night’s sleep

Getting consistent amount of good-quality night of sleep is one of the most important things you can do if you want to succeed. Do not underestimate the importance of those eight hours of sleep every night! It will help you stay more energized, productive, and open-minded. Your brain needs to rest at its peak. If it is time to sleep, jot down the things you still need to get done on the next day’s to-do list and go to bed. Getting good sleep will sharpen your focus and improve your working memory.